Research on the hormonal basis of sexual differentiation of mammalian behavior and its neural substrates constitutes an important chapter in the study of neural development that has led to important insights into how to conceptualize sexuality. Here research on sexual differentiation of avian social behavior is discussed with an eye toward potential insights into avian sexuality. Hormone manipulation experiments with Japanese quail (Coturnix japonica) and zebra finches (Taeniopygia guttata) reveal dissociations between different components of sexual and social behavior. None of the components of the male behavioral phenotype appear to be organized by androgens. Avian sexuality arises from multiple processes and pathways that appear to differ for mating behavior, sexual partner preference, and pairing. This provides the mechanistic bases for changes in social behavior in the course of avian evolution.

Keywords:
Japanese quail, Zebra finch, Social behavior, Sexual differentiation, Copulation, Sexual partner preference, Pairing
This content is only available via PDF.
© 2009 S. Karger AG, Basel
2009
Copyright / Drug Dosage / Disclaimer
Copyright: All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be translated into other languages, reproduced or utilized in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, microcopying, or by any information storage and retrieval system, without permission in writing from the publisher.
Drug Dosage: The authors and the publisher have exerted every effort to ensure that drug selection and dosage set forth in this text are in accord with current recommendations and practice at the time of publication. However, in view of ongoing research, changes in government regulations, and the constant flow of information relating to drug therapy and drug reactions, the reader is urged to check the package insert for each drug for any changes in indications and dosage and for added warnings and precautions. This is particularly important when the recommended agent is a new and/or infrequently employed drug.
Disclaimer: The statements, opinions and data contained in this publication are solely those of the individual authors and contributors and not of the publishers and the editor(s). The appearance of advertisements or/and product references in the publication is not a warranty, endorsement, or approval of the products or services advertised or of their effectiveness, quality or safety. The publisher and the editor(s) disclaim responsibility for any injury to persons or property resulting from any ideas, methods, instructions or products referred to in the content or advertisements.
You do not currently have access to this content.